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SD 88

An Act extending the civil statute of limitations for child abuse

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Moore

Extends the civil statute of limitations for child abuse lawsuits, allowing survivors more time to file claims against abusers and responsible institutions.

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Bill Summary · SD 88

Legislative bill overview

SD 88 extends the civil statute of limitations for child abuse cases in Massachusetts, allowing survivors longer to file lawsuits against abusers and institutions. The bill removes or significantly expands time restrictions that previously prevented adult survivors from bringing civil claims years after abuse occurred.

Why is this important

Many child abuse survivors don't disclose or recognize trauma until adulthood, making short statutes of limitations barriers to justice and compensation. Extended timelines allow survivors to pursue accountability against perpetrators and negligent institutions (schools, organizations, churches) regardless of when they choose to come forward.

Potential points of contention

  • Defendant burden: Extending limitations periods makes it harder for defendants to defend themselves decades later when evidence deteriorates and witnesses become unavailable or die
  • Institutional liability: Organizations may face significant financial exposure for historical abuse, potentially affecting operations or insurance costs
  • Retroactivity questions: Whether the extended timeline applies to claims already expired under old law—contentious because it can revive very old cases
  • Balancing interests: Tension between survivor access to justice and legal finality/certainty for defendants and institutions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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